the chaplain: let us pray. eternal father, our shelter in the time of storm, bless the senators who are preparing to leave and those who are coming. as we turn to a new chapter in our nation's history, we ask for your guidance. we need you to guide us through the through the labyrinthine seasons of history, for we are weak but you are mighty. lord, guide us with your faithful hands, becoming for this great land our strength and shield. strengthen our weakness, comfort us in trouble and distress, and empower us to fight the good fight of faith. we pray in the name of him who is the way, the truth, and the life. amen. the presiding officer: please join me in reciting the pledge of allegiance to the flag. i pledge allegiance to the flag of the united states of america, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under god, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. the presiding officer: the clerk will read a communication to the senate. the clerk: washington, d.c., november 13, 2012. to the senate: un